DOVEDETAILS

ISSUE TWELVE www.dovefund.org FALL 2012

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P.O. Box 350741Toledo, Ohio 43635

The D.O.V.E. Fund is a non-profitcorporation founded by severalVietnam veterans, Rotarians, andother concerned citizens in Janu-ary 2000, in Toledo, Ohio.

Our goal is to provide humanitarianand development assistance to ar-eas in Vietnam; to promote com-munication, education, and culturalexchanges that reflect the bestqualities of both cultures; and tocreate an environment brightenedby hope and sustained by peace.

The D.O.V.E. Fund is a 501(c)3nonprofit organization and is incor-porated under the laws of the stateof Ohio. Contributions are tax de-ductible.

Since its founding, the D.O.V.E.Fund has built 21 nurseryschools,16 daycare centers, 9 el-ementary schools, and 1 juniorhigh school. In addition, D.O.V.E.has built 4 medical clinics, 6 majorwater projects, and more than 150latrines, conducted medical mis-sions, implemented an EmergencyMedicine Residency Program,and established 2 Micro-financeprograms for women in QuangTri and Thua Thien Hue provinces.

We’ve funded tuition assistancefor over 1,000 poor students, work-shops for English teachers, com-puters and sewing machinesfor Phu Hau Vocational School,braille computers and printer forHue School for Blind, 5 schoolcomputer centers, 8 mobile lib-raries, 2 mobile dental clinics and120 Solar Lights for Readingso students can study after dark.

PRST STANDARD

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDTOLEDO, OH

PERMIT NO. 164

VIETNAM...HONORING A MAN, A HUSBANDAND A SOLDIERBy Joanne Gump

This journey happened onlybecause I was married to amost-wonderful, giving, andloving man. My husbandwas a proud Marine and en-listed in 1964. He was pas-sionate about the UnitedStates of America andwanted to do what he feltwas most honorable - servehis country. He enlisted inApril, 1964 and trained inParris Island, SC andCamp Lejeune, NC. Hewas assigned to the 3rdBattalion, 4th Marine Regi-ment, 3rd Marine Divisionand the battalion was deployed to the Republic of Vietnam in April, 1965. He waspart of a group called “CAPS” (Combined Action Platoons) and served mainly at ConThien Hill, Dong Ha, Quang Tri province near the DMZ.

He seldom spoke of war experiences, but during our 36 year marriage he often saidhe would like to return to see how things changed. He had a deep affection for thepeople and had memories and feelings of the war that only he and others who servedthere could understand. Sadly, before he could make his return trip he succumbedto lung cancer in 2008.

I was able to personally fulfill his dream after visiting my daughter Tara who lives inThailand. We both decided to take an extended trip to Vietnam. I knew it would befilled with much emotion and sadness, yet felt it was necessary. Upon entering thecountry I was immediately moved on many levels and it was difficult to sort throughit all. However, we were blessed with a most- wonderful guide named Nguyen CongThong. We called him “Thong”. His wealth of information and history of the war isremarkable and was very settling for us. My daughter supplied an agency withbackground information about my husband’s duty stations and we strongly desiredto retrace his steps. Thong helped us do that and took us to the exact places wherewe were able to talk to many people who remembered that time so well.In fact, we met an older villager who recognized my husband’s picture. The man was16 years old at the time.

continued on page 3

D.O.V.E. FUND MISSION TRIP 2013By Staff Writer

On January 17, 2013, a contingent of D.O.V.E. representatives will depart Detroit Metropolitan Airport for another exciting andproductive trip to Vietnam. Traveling with the group for the first time will be Jerry Dunaway, a retired teacher and coach fromTrenton, MI. Jerry served in the Air Force and was stationed in Japan. He was given the opportunity to volunteer for Vietnamduty before anyone knew much about where it was and what was going on there in the late 1950’s. He chose to remain at hisduty station in Japan with his Intelligence group which suited him well. Jerry has a strong desire to see Vietnam and interactwith the people since it could have been an integral part of his life. It will be after this trip!

Also traveling with the group is Dale Dykema and his wife Cathy, from Holland, MI. Dale was a surgeon assigned to the MarineForces located in Dong Ha. Interestingly enough we will be spending three days in Dong Ha reviewing various D.O.V.E. Fundprojects in the surrounding area. Dale volunteers with PET International, another article in this issue, and he has a very sincerepassion to help others. We are excited for Dale as he makes his “return trip” with us. Another returning Vietnam veteran is TimRyan, a long-time local Rotarian, who brings extensive experience regarding a variety of international efforts.

It is standard operating procedure for the contingent to meet with local officials about new project ideas for our 2013 year. Inaddition, there will be dedication ceremonies at the Hai Thanh elementary and Phu Luu Daycare in Quang Tri province and thePho Phong daycare center in Quang Ngai province. Visits to the Hai An medical center and sanitation project are also in order.Then the group will distribute 140 PET carts to the disabled in Hue as well as install 90 Solar Lights for Reading in Hong Vanwhich is in the remote A Loui district northwest of Hue. The group will be meeting with three scholarship groups – Quang Tri andHai Lang High Schools who have 90 students each and about 20 students at the University of Technology in Saigon. We focuson interacting with people at all levels – children, teachers and parents as well as local officials at the commune, village, districtand provincial levels. For 13 years we’ve developed great relationships. We’ve been told many times that we are uniquebecause our frequent visits, hands-on approach and relationship building greatly set us apart from most charitable organiza-tions.

Joanne watching local man look at her old pictures. He recognizedher husband

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2012 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

HONORARY MEMBERS

MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAIRMAN

PERPETUAL HONORARY MEMBERS

Adrienne BellRichard CarrPeter Casey IIIChris CheneyMolly Spitzer FrostMarianne GehringMarian GremsBrady Grimm

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VIETNAM REPRESENTATIVE

Dear D.O.V.E. Fund family members,

On behalf of the members of the Board of Trustees,greetings to you and those you hold dearly. We hopethis message finds you prosperous and healthy as weapproach the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. Weare having another incredible year and in a couple ofmonths our 13th completed year will be in the books. Ithardly seems possible another 365 days have been rap-idly folded into our rich history which now totals about4,650 days since inception in January 2000. Havinghelped approximately 37,000 people so far with our vari-

ous projects and programs, together we are helping on average 8 impover-ished people per day to improve their lot in life. That is exciting!

Speaking of time racing along, I am reminded of when I was a child frequentlywishing for something to occur sooner – the end of the school day, the end ofthe school year, getting “quick sleep” so I could fill my next day, getting mydriver’s license – you get the picture. As each year passes, I vividly recall mymother advising me as a child not to wish my life away because, “The daysseem to go by a lot faster as you get older.” were her words of wisdom. AndMom, as with many other important lessons about life, you were right on withthis one!

For several years we concentrated on building schools, clean water systemsand medical clinics. Our project base has widened considerably and nowincludes micro-finance programs, mobile libraries, mobile dental clinics, solarlights for reading, more computer labs, homes for Agent Orange and landminevictims and many others that fulfill a basic need. Today we are finding ourwork is beginning to be recognized and sought by others. Over the pastseveral months we’ve been approached by charitable organizations wishing topartner with us for a specific project. This is exciting since it allows us toleverage strengths from two charities to effectively help those in need. Inparticular, you can read in this issue about the new PET International project.PET stands for Personal Energy Transportation. In January 2013, P.E.T. andD.O.V.E. will launch an inaugural event in Hue, Vietnam – The “Gift of Mobil-ity” to the disabled.

Each time we pour over project proposals we strive to allocate funds wherethey will be most effective. We are grateful for your continued support of ourMission to help the poorest children and families of Vietnam. Without youthese needs would remain unfilled. It takes a tremendous amount of people,energy and funding to function as effectively and successfully as we havebeen able to perform. It is with sincere appreciation that we thank you forhelping develop a rich and rewarding history for the D.O.V.E. Fund. And if youare reading this newsletter for the first time, we hope you will decide to join ourfamily and join us for an incredible and rewarding journey.

God’s richest blessings to you,John Craven,Chairman

Jerry AndersonSteve BoiceJohn BormanPaul de St. VictorRobert DurbinLinda DurbinDan FooteDodie GainesJason GuiducciRev. Robert HaasCMDR Porter HalyburtonMary HannaDavid LangendorferGretta Laskey

Robert MehringChuck OswaldTom Saam

John AbbeyJulie AbbeyRobert CulpClair DobsonGreg FishDan GreggJill GrimmRobert Krisher

TRUSTEES

John Craven, Board ChairJim Taylor, Vice ChairFred Grimm, Vice Chair, Vietnam ProjectsGail Craven, SecretaryTim Kearney, Treasurer

ADVISORY MEMBERS

Susan HammonRoger HeiderPat LongbrakeDale MehringSharon Sitek-DendingerGreg Trabbic Norm Van NessJoyce Woodworth

Mark SatheLanny Saumer

Mark MakulinskiGeof McKissonSharon McKissonJim MedillPaula MehringChrys PetersonJohn RiceDavid RyersonChuck StockingTom TreeceRenee TreeceDianne Van VoorhisJohn WileyAngie Wingerd

Denny McBroomDo NguyenCeleste SouthardRoland SouthardLinda StockerSharon TrabbicDavid WelchDoug Welch

WAR ORPHAN THANKS VETERANSBy Katie Nixon, Vietnamese war orphan

Hello! My name is Katie Nixon and I am a South Vietnamese war orphan. Likethousands of other infants and children, I was abandoned on the side of the roadin Can Tho, South Vietnam in 1975. I was found and brought to an orphanagethere, then transferred to another in Saigon before fleeing Vietnam. I was savedvia the efforts of “Operation Babylift” and evacuated on April 6, 1975. I wasCanada-bound and adopted by a loving family from London, Ontario.

I cannot summarize in a few paragraphs a lifetime of thoughts about my aban-donment, adoption and the healing process required to overcome my strugglesand pain. However, I will share that during my return trip to Vietnam in 2000, Isurprisingly discovered that the key to my healing was going back and facingmy fears and worst nightmare, if I wanted to move forward.

It was by the grace of God that my husband’s aunt happened upon the D.O.V.E.Fund website and found John Craven while doing research for her own book.John is the first Vietnam veteran I’ve encountered and when we met this August, it was a wonderful reunion of what seemed tobe two old friends – a meeting of the past and present, of war veteran and war orphan, of two hearts who share both a commonache and a common passion for the same country. It was epic for me.

The feelings are difficult to put into words, but a heartfelt thank yougoes out to all Vietnam War Veterans – we orphans are so grateful toeach and every one of you! You ARE our champions!

I would also like to extend my appreciation to the D.O.V.E. Fund foryour continued support of the poorest Vietnamese children and theirfamilies in Vietnam. It warms my heart knowing these families arebenefiting from your organization, and that you are truly making a differ-ence in the lives of these children. Bravo! And keep up the incrediblework!

God bless!

Bui Cam Nhung

Scott, Katie, John, & Gail taken August 25, 2012 when they met

Katie at the orphanage where they gave her the nameMatilda

If you would like to help the D.O.V.E. Fund make a difference in the lives of Vietnamese families, please fill out this form, encloseyour donation and mail it to the D.O.V.E. Fund at P.O. Box 350741, Toledo, Ohio 43635

Name__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________City_________________State________Zip___________

Telephone______________________________Email____________________________________

Amount of Donation___________________________________________________________

Donation made in Memory/Honor of:______________________________________

________ Yes, I would like to receive the D.O.V.E. Diligence Online newsletter

Thank you for your support!If you’d like to know more about D.O.V.E.’s ongoing projects, please take the time to visitour website at www.dovefund.org

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

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D.O.V.E. FUND FOUNDER RECEIVES JEFFERSON AWARDBy Dan Gregg

When D.O.V.E. Fund trustee Jim Taylor left Vietnam in 1968, he never imagined he wouldreturn. Vietnam was especially brutal for Jim. Wounded twice and losing a good friend in thewar, he was grateful to return to civilian life in Toledo, Ohio. Taylor worked at Ford MotorCompany until his retirement in 2006. While at Ford, he became involved with the UAW Veter-ans Committee - eventually becoming National Chair with a term as Chairman of the UAWRegion 2-BE Advisory Council.

For Taylor, like other veterans, Vietnam remained an ominous part of his life. His thoughtsturned from trying to forget Vietnam to thinking maybe he could return and help the people of thecountry ravaged by decades of war. In 2000, he was among other Vietnam veterans and Rotarianswho founded the D.O.V.E. Fund.

Soon after, he and members of the newly formed charity made their first trip to Vietnam. Al-though he wanted to return, Taylor knew that Vietnam held many bad memories. He wasapprehensive about his reception in Vietnam but after a few days, he was relieved and said“These are the most loving and friendly people you could ever meet. It’s just unbelievable.” Jimwas so moved by his return trip that he played a major role in the effort to fund a school in DauKenh.

In March, from 70 nominees, Jim was one of four local humanitarians to receive the prestigious Jefferson Award. He was thenchosen to represent the Toledo area at the National ceremony in June in Washington DC. The Jefferson Award is a nationalrecognition system designed to honor those who demonstrate extraordinary service to their community and the world. This isnot the first time a D.O.V.E. Fund trustee has been honored with the Jefferson Award. Two years ago, Fred Grimm, current ViceChair of Vietnam Projects, received the award from the Toledo organization. Grimm, also a Vietnam veteran and Purple Heartrecipient, is planning his thirteenth mission trip to Vietnam in January of 2013.

Although Taylor, 66, is now retired, he rarely has time to relax. He is a lifetime member of the Toledo Old Newsboys andvolunteers at his church by gathering food to feed the needy at its Hospitality Kitchen. We congratulate Jim for his passion tomake a positive difference in the lives of others.

Jim Taylor and principal at dedicationof school funded by Dan Pham

CARRYING ON HIS FATHER’S LEGACYBy Staff Writer

James P. Guiducci served two voluntary tours in Vietnam with the US Army Engineers– onenear the village of M’Drak in the Central Highlands. In 2008 he returned bringing his son,Jason, a middle school teacher and wrestling coach near Vallejo, CA. Moved by the childrenof M’Drak who swarmed around them with smiling faces, Jason was touched and vowed tohelp them and further his dad’s original mission - to help the Vietnamese. He researchedhow he might help the impoverished children near M’Drak. He found the Hoang Van ThuJunior High School (“HVT”) near M’Drak funded by the D.O.V.E. Fund.

Jason contacted Chairman John Craven, shared his personal connection and asked how heand his middle school Springstowne Wrestling Team members could provide benefit to theHVT students. Many of the boys and girls on the team are of Vietnamese descent so lettersand emails began to link the two groups of students half-a-world apart fostering a new cul-tural exchange. Springstowne held an inaugural wrestling tournament and proceeds fundedHVT scholarships. Jason and his team members have provided enough funds to help fundtuition assistance for one year for 32 students at HVT. These children are the future ofVietnam!

The James P. Guiducci wrestling tournament now has a very specialmeaning for all involved as Jason’s father passed away in 2010, eigh-teen months after their trip to Vietnam. Jason stated, “Going to Viet-nam with my father was the best decision I ever made.” He mentionedhe and his father were positively changed by it.

Jason’s passion motivates his students and teaches them firsthandthe joy received when helping others in need. The D.O.V.E. Fund helpsover 350 students annually via tuition assistance. Without scholarshipassistance the children raised in farming communities such as M’Drakcould not attend school as the $50- $75/year tuition for one student isabout 1/6 the average yearly income. Jason’s efforts are vital to further-ing the D.O.V.E. Fund mission.

Jason A. Guiducci is our newest Honorary Member. Upon learningthis, Jason replied: “I was completely touched at the news and utterlyspeechless of this honor I’ve been bestowed. The veterans of Viet Namare my heroes and to be given this honor to work with them is beyondwords”.

We applaud Jason for his passion to teach, inspire and make a positive difference!

VIETNAM...HONORING A MAN, A HUSBAND AND A SOLDIER continued

from page 1

James P. Guiducci

A few Springstowne Wrestling Team members pose with their Li-Xi gift envelopes for HVT students

Hoang Van Thu students on receiving end of the Li-Xi giftenvelopes Joanne’s daughter, Tara, sitting on a French bunker located at Con

Thien Hill where her father served

Being on an emotional rollercoaster, we were moved beyond words by what we saw and how the people live day-to-day. ThenThong told us about the D.O.V.E. Fund and showed us a school that was built by their donations. It is close to the area wheremy husband spent a great deal of time. He shared about the wonder-ful efforts of this group and how much they help where there is muchneed. I was blown away by a group of people I didn’t even know…yet.

When I returned home, I was still overcome with emotion by what weexperienced. I felt such a connection with the Vietnamese, the memoryof my husband and his time spent in Vietnam. I decided to carry onmy husband’s legacy by helping the people that went through somuch during the war. Thong mentioned many of the D.O.V.E. Fundmembers are Vietnam veterans and suggested I contact trustee FredGrimm. I eagerly did so and afterward I was convinced the D.O.V.E.Fund was my way to help. Fred elaborated on various projects and Idecided to help the Leper victims because of their extreme needs. Ithought this was a significant place to start, and based on my trip,whatever I chose, I knew would be perfect! I know my husband andother veterans left Vietnam with deep feelings for the people and theirunfortunate struggles. My trip experiences will be among my mosttreasured memories in my lifetime.

Jason Guiducci and John Craven at San Francisco Airport in 2012

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A GIFT OF A LIFETIMEBy Marian Grems

As the holiday season approaches, we pause to celebrate our bless-ings and we are challenged to share our gifts to make a difference inthe lives of those who have little. The children in impoverished areas ofVietnam need your help. Hope comes, “ribbon tied”, in the gift of edu-cation and provides a stepping stone out of poverty.

Education plays a central role in Vietnamese culture and is paramountfor the future growth of this country where 60 percent of the populationis under age 35. However, for the families living in the rural communi-ties served by the D.O.V.E. Fund, education beyond the compulsoryPrimary level is a sacrifice. The need for children to contribute to familyincome in single and disabled households often forces a choice ofwork over education.

The D.O.V.E. Fund scholarship program, started in 2000, hasbenefited hundreds of Vietnamese students from grade school tocollege. The Scholarship Committee works with school administra-tors to determine the most deserving student candidates. In addition to financial need, students must demonstrate scholasticpotential, initiative and a solid work ethic to receive our scholarship. Without the D.O.V.E. Fund, many of these studentswould have to drop out of school and work to support their families.

The generosity of our donors has made this school year and thefuture brighter for over 370 D.O.V.E. Scholars. Tuition assistancetotaling $33,250 was awarded to students in grade 5 through univer-sity at eleven schools - 7 elementary, 1 junior high school, 2 highschools, and 1 university.

As you strive to find the perfect holiday gift for that special person whohas everything, consider making a donation to our Scholarship fund intheir name. Your heartfelt gift of education will honor the recipient withthe knowledge that a legacy of hope has been given, in their name, toa needy student in Vietnam. Visit www.dovefund.org to make a dona-tion that promises to be the gift of a lifetime!

Excerpts from a scholarhip student’s thank you letter:

Dear aunts and uncles in the D.O.V.E. Fund,I please to introduce myself, my name is Nguyen Thi Thanh Hang now a student at Hai Lang high school.Since I received scholarship by organization awarded, the life of my family have decreased many difficulties.My parents reduce a burden while they are raising four childrens to school. Thus, I have the condition for better learning.

When I was asked about dream myself, Isaid that “I want to be a businesswoman”.And if tomorrow, this dream come true, Iwill be like you, finding the difficult andunfortunate who are needing help and pro-tect.

I wish aunts and uncles would be rigoroushealth to help more and more many stu-dents.

Yours faithfully,Nguyen Thi Thanh Hang

MICRO-FINANCE HELPS TRANSFORM LIVES IN VIETNAMBy Jill Grimm

Micro-finance is a grass-root investment in the power of hardworking entre-preneurs. In order for the poorest in Vietnam to overcome poverty theyneed capital and practical training. The D.O.V.E. Fund provides loans tothe poorer women of Vietnam so they can invest in livestock, agriculturalventures or commerce.

How does it work? Seed money is offered to selected women who do nothave the collateral or credit history to secure traditional loans. D.O.V.E.works closely with Hearts for Hue, a Vietnamese non-profit organizationthat approves the candidates who will receive loans. The women are thenassigned to a group of approximately ten fellow recipients who offer supportto one another and assistance in the event that one of their members suf-fers a loss and is unable to pay on the loan. Detailed bookkeeping recordsare managed and account for all transactions. The loan amount is repaidwith interest and the repaid loan is again available to help new individualsinvest in businesses.

The women who are awarded the loans use it to purchase farm animals or fish tobreed, fabrics and a sewing machine to start a tailoring business, crops to culti-vate such as mushrooms, black pepper trees or any number of potential busi-ness commodities.

This program is experiencing great success and we are looking into expanding itwith additional funding for 2013. You can help by investing in the potential ofthese hard-working, impoverished individuals. As the old saying goes, “Give aman a fish and you feed him for a day: teach him to catch a fish and you feed himfor a lifetime.” Please help us to help them help themselves by a donation to ourMicro-finance project today. No amount is too small because our dollar goes along way in Vietnam.

Thank you for your continued support of the D.O.V.E. Fund.

Hai Lang High School scholarship recipients with members of the D.O.V..E Delegation

Pat Youngs & John Craven with junior high school scholarshiprecipients

Dodie Gaines with scholarship recipients and teachersNOTEWORTHY ITEMS FROM THE D.O.V.E. FUNDDon’t forget to support our fundraising efforts throughout the year and join us at these fun events.

December 22, 2012 5:00 pm “Tom and Gary’s Holiday Charity Bash II”, a fundraiser to help feed Vietnam’s starving lepercolonies to be held at the Monroe VFW on Jones St. Hosted by Tom and Renee Treece and DJ Gary “Daddy G” Knight. Treece’sband “Cross Point” will provide the live music along with other special guests. $10 donation at the door

May 2013 Twylite Thursday at the Pinnacle 5:30 pm. Join us for after-work cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres on the patio of thePinnacle Banquet Center in Maumee. Donation is only $10

June 7, 2013 11:30 am D.O.V.E. Fund Golf outing at South Toledo Golf Club. Bring your favorite foursome and join us for a funday on the links. Cash bar and steak dinner afterwards along with prizes and a raffle for terrific gifts. $125 donation per person

August 16, 2013 6:00 pm Charity Dinner Auction. This is our biggest and most elegant fundraiser of the year and is held at thePinnacle Banquet Center in Maumee. Enjoy browsing through the dozens of items while you enjoy your favorite drink duringcocktail hour, then sit down for a lovely dinner in anticipation of the live auction hosted by WTOL personalities Chrys Petersonand Jerry Anderson. $75 per person

D.O.V.E. DILIGENCE Keep informed on the latest D.O.V.E. Fund projects with our monthly e-newsletter sent directly to yourInbox. Sign up online at www.dovefund.org

Nguyen Thi Dan buys & sells duck eggs as her businessventure

Micro-Finance is a growing venture

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DEDICATION AND INSPIRATIONBy Linda Stocker

In 2008 a struggling group of volunteers contacted The D.O.V.E.Fund for assistance transporting their handmade bandages to thosewith leprosy in Vietnam. That year over 600 bandages traveled inthe nooks and crannies of their luggage and it expanded from there.The D.O.V.E. Fund Bandage Brigade has provided over 12,000 ban-dages to remote leper villages. And EVA Airlines has helped greatlywith free bandage transportation.

The Bandage Brigade is over 800 individuals and groups in 48 statesplus 6 Canadian provinces and 14 other countries. Our volunteersare very dedicated people.

Dorothy in Marshall, MN just completed her 450th bandagesince 2007. A veteran of the Korean Era, she dedicatesher time for bandages, veteran organizations and thecommunity hospital.

John in West Coxsackie, NY has worked diligently since 2010 and has turned in over 80 beautiful bandages.

Many of our volunteers take time out from other projects (prayer shawls, blankets for elderly, layettes for still bornbabies, caps for cancer patients, etc.) to work specifically on leper bandages.

Undoubtedly this project is beneficial to both the bandage recipientand the volunteers. Many report their effort helps them through thedeath of a child or spouse, recovery from an illness or surgery,divorce, loss of job or makes them feel good helping others.

One of our dear crochet ladies passed away and the daybefore her death she was very concerned she could notfinish her last bandage. It was forwarded to us 6"short…just perfect under the circumstances. We areblessed and inspired by her utmost dedication.

In addition to tending to thewounds of the lepers, TheD.O.V.E. Fund has recog-nized and stepped forwardto help them with additionalsupport - providing funds forblankets during the winter

and food to supplement their meager existence. These needs continue and your dona-tion designated “Bandage Brigade” or “Leper Assistance” will go directly toward makingthe lives of these people more bearable.

Visit www.dovefund.org to learn more about this important facet of D.O.V.E.’s Mission.

PERSONAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATIONBy Fred Grimm

The idea of working with PET International came to the D.O.V.E. Fund via board trustee, Clair Dobson, of Miamisburg, Ohio.Clair explained PET has multiple locations across the USA that design and construct three-wheeled carts that are to be usedsolely by the disabled. PET International has partnered with several organizations to successfully provide their brightly coloredvehicles in many countries. Upon learning of the type work the D.O.V.E. Fund does via our website, Clair’s friend, whovolunteers for PET, wanted to know if we would be interested in combining efforts with them. Conducting mission trips toVietnam over the past 12 years, our board members were aware that the disabled in Vietnam could greatly benefit by beinggifted a PET vehicle. We did not hesitate. We found a perfect match and are proud to be the first to distribute PET carts inVietnam!

On a previous trip I vividly recall an elderly gentleman carrying his disabled wifedown the sidewalk in Saigon. When this project came up I was excited that itcould be the answer to situations such as this one – and certainly many others.Disabilities in Vietnam range from war wounds, Agent Orange dioxin birth de-fects and today’s victims of unexploded ordnance accidents. Hearts For Hue,a Vietnam charity, has identified those in need of PET carts and we will distrib-ute 140 PET carts in Hue, Vietnam next January. We will not only give mobilityto individuals, but free up the lives of their caregivers who struggle each dayhelping their disabled loved ones who lack mobility.

A few of our board members visited the PET workshop located in Holland, Michi-gan. We met passionate retired men and women volunteering their time toproduce great vehicles. The three-wheeled carts are extremely well made,colorful and very durable.

The D.O.V.E. Fund is handling shipping and Vietnam charity Hearts for Hue thedistribution logistics. Because many items are being exported from Vietnam tothe U.S., the cost of shipping these PET units on return trips to Vietnam is veryinexpensive (approximately $25/cart).

On our upcoming trip to Vietnam in January, 2013 PET volunteer and Vietnam veteran Dale Dykema and his wife Cathy will joinus. Dale has been to other countries helping with the distribution process, however, helping distribute carts in Vietnam nearwhere he served in 1969 will be a very special moment for him indeed. We will photograph the happy recipients and bringimages back to Holland, Michigan as well as other PET locations to display in their workshops. PET’s wonderful volunteers willsee the difference they are making in the lives of these people half-way around the world.

God bless the D.O.V.E. Fund and PET International!

FROM THE D.O.V.E. FUND TREASURERBy Tim Kearney, Treasurer

I am very pleased to report that The D.O.V.E. Fund is having another successful year in 2012. Our annual Golf Outing thatnetted over $15,000 and our 6th Annual D.O.V.E. Auction resulting in over $71,000 thanks to you – our generous supporters.

On the project side, we have approved and funded projects that you are reading about in this issue and others totaling over$102,000 so far this year. We also currently have restricted gifts of $200,000 that can only be used for designated projectsincluding scholarships. We want to reiterate that other than our Vietnamese Project Manager, Cam Nhung in Vietnam, we haveno other salaries and wages and all our administrative costs are fully funded by the donations of the individual Trustees. Ourannual trips are all paid for by the individuals going on the trip to inspect the projects to assure our donors that their donationsare making a huge difference in the lives of the children and their families in Vietnam.

Thanks again for your generous support in 2012 and we look forward to continuing our success next year thanks to people likeyou who generously support our Mission.

A Catholic nun applying a sterile bandage

Another sterile bandage being applied

Linda Stocker assisting in food distributionnear Pleiku

Do Nguyen, Denny McBroom, Dale Dykema, & JohnCraven with the PET vehicle. Do, Dale, & John will helpdistribute 140 PET vehicles in Vietnam in January, 2013

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DEDICATION AND INSPIRATIONBy Linda Stocker

In 2008 a struggling group of volunteers contacted The D.O.V.E.Fund for assistance transporting their handmade bandages to thosewith leprosy in Vietnam. That year over 600 bandages traveled inthe nooks and crannies of their luggage and it expanded from there.The D.O.V.E. Fund Bandage Brigade has provided over 12,000 ban-dages to remote leper villages. And EVA Airlines has helped greatlywith free bandage transportation.

The Bandage Brigade is over 800 individuals and groups in 48 statesplus 6 Canadian provinces and 14 other countries. Our volunteersare very dedicated people.

Dorothy in Marshall, MN just completed her 450th bandagesince 2007. A veteran of the Korean Era, she dedicatesher time for bandages, veteran organizations and thecommunity hospital.

John in West Coxsackie, NY has worked diligently since 2010 and has turned in over 80 beautiful bandages.

Many of our volunteers take time out from other projects (prayer shawls, blankets for elderly, layettes for still bornbabies, caps for cancer patients, etc.) to work specifically on leper bandages.

Undoubtedly this project is beneficial to both the bandage recipientand the volunteers. Many report their effort helps them through thedeath of a child or spouse, recovery from an illness or surgery,divorce, loss of job or makes them feel good helping others.

One of our dear crochet ladies passed away and the daybefore her death she was very concerned she could notfinish her last bandage. It was forwarded to us 6"short…just perfect under the circumstances. We areblessed and inspired by her utmost dedication.

In addition to tending to thewounds of the lepers, TheD.O.V.E. Fund has recog-nized and stepped forwardto help them with additionalsupport - providing funds forblankets during the winter

and food to supplement their meager existence. These needs continue and your dona-tion designated “Bandage Brigade” or “Leper Assistance” will go directly toward makingthe lives of these people more bearable.

Visit www.dovefund.org to learn more about this important facet of D.O.V.E.’s Mission.

PERSONAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATIONBy Fred Grimm

The idea of working with PET International came to the D.O.V.E. Fund via board trustee, Clair Dobson, of Miamisburg, Ohio.Clair explained PET has multiple locations across the USA that design and construct three-wheeled carts that are to be usedsolely by the disabled. PET International has partnered with several organizations to successfully provide their brightly coloredvehicles in many countries. Upon learning of the type work the D.O.V.E. Fund does via our website, Clair’s friend, whovolunteers for PET, wanted to know if we would be interested in combining efforts with them. Conducting mission trips toVietnam over the past 12 years, our board members were aware that the disabled in Vietnam could greatly benefit by beinggifted a PET vehicle. We did not hesitate. We found a perfect match and are proud to be the first to distribute PET carts inVietnam!

On a previous trip I vividly recall an elderly gentleman carrying his disabled wifedown the sidewalk in Saigon. When this project came up I was excited that itcould be the answer to situations such as this one – and certainly many others.Disabilities in Vietnam range from war wounds, Agent Orange dioxin birth de-fects and today’s victims of unexploded ordnance accidents. Hearts For Hue,a Vietnam charity, has identified those in need of PET carts and we will distrib-ute 140 PET carts in Hue, Vietnam next January. We will not only give mobilityto individuals, but free up the lives of their caregivers who struggle each dayhelping their disabled loved ones who lack mobility.

A few of our board members visited the PET workshop located in Holland, Michi-gan. We met passionate retired men and women volunteering their time toproduce great vehicles. The three-wheeled carts are extremely well made,colorful and very durable.

The D.O.V.E. Fund is handling shipping and Vietnam charity Hearts for Hue thedistribution logistics. Because many items are being exported from Vietnam tothe U.S., the cost of shipping these PET units on return trips to Vietnam is veryinexpensive (approximately $25/cart).

On our upcoming trip to Vietnam in January, 2013 PET volunteer and Vietnam veteran Dale Dykema and his wife Cathy will joinus. Dale has been to other countries helping with the distribution process, however, helping distribute carts in Vietnam nearwhere he served in 1969 will be a very special moment for him indeed. We will photograph the happy recipients and bringimages back to Holland, Michigan as well as other PET locations to display in their workshops. PET’s wonderful volunteers willsee the difference they are making in the lives of these people half-way around the world.

God bless the D.O.V.E. Fund and PET International!

FROM THE D.O.V.E. FUND TREASURERBy Tim Kearney, Treasurer

I am very pleased to report that The D.O.V.E. Fund is having another successful year in 2012. Our annual Golf Outing thatnetted over $15,000 and our 6th Annual D.O.V.E. Auction resulting in over $71,000 thanks to you – our generous supporters.

On the project side, we have approved and funded projects that you are reading about in this issue and others totaling over$102,000 so far this year. We also currently have restricted gifts of $200,000 that can only be used for designated projectsincluding scholarships. We want to reiterate that other than our Vietnamese Project Manager, Cam Nhung in Vietnam, we haveno other salaries and wages and all our administrative costs are fully funded by the donations of the individual Trustees. Ourannual trips are all paid for by the individuals going on the trip to inspect the projects to assure our donors that their donationsare making a huge difference in the lives of the children and their families in Vietnam.

Thanks again for your generous support in 2012 and we look forward to continuing our success next year thanks to people likeyou who generously support our Mission.

A Catholic nun applying a sterile bandage

Another sterile bandage being applied

Linda Stocker assisting in food distributionnear Pleiku

Do Nguyen, Denny McBroom, Dale Dykema, & JohnCraven with the PET vehicle. Do, Dale, & John will helpdistribute 140 PET vehicles in Vietnam in January, 2013

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A GIFT OF A LIFETIMEBy Marian Grems

As the holiday season approaches, we pause to celebrate our bless-ings and we are challenged to share our gifts to make a difference inthe lives of those who have little. The children in impoverished areas ofVietnam need your help. Hope comes, “ribbon tied”, in the gift of edu-cation and provides a stepping stone out of poverty.

Education plays a central role in Vietnamese culture and is paramountfor the future growth of this country where 60 percent of the populationis under age 35. However, for the families living in the rural communi-ties served by the D.O.V.E. Fund, education beyond the compulsoryPrimary level is a sacrifice. The need for children to contribute to familyincome in single and disabled households often forces a choice ofwork over education.

The D.O.V.E. Fund scholarship program, started in 2000, hasbenefited hundreds of Vietnamese students from grade school tocollege. The Scholarship Committee works with school administra-tors to determine the most deserving student candidates. In addition to financial need, students must demonstrate scholasticpotential, initiative and a solid work ethic to receive our scholarship. Without the D.O.V.E. Fund, many of these studentswould have to drop out of school and work to support their families.

The generosity of our donors has made this school year and thefuture brighter for over 370 D.O.V.E. Scholars. Tuition assistancetotaling $33,250 was awarded to students in grade 5 through univer-sity at eleven schools - 7 elementary, 1 junior high school, 2 highschools, and 1 university.

As you strive to find the perfect holiday gift for that special person whohas everything, consider making a donation to our Scholarship fund intheir name. Your heartfelt gift of education will honor the recipient withthe knowledge that a legacy of hope has been given, in their name, toa needy student in Vietnam. Visit www.dovefund.org to make a dona-tion that promises to be the gift of a lifetime!

Excerpts from a scholarhip student’s thank you letter:

Dear aunts and uncles in the D.O.V.E. Fund,I please to introduce myself, my name is Nguyen Thi Thanh Hang now a student at Hai Lang high school.Since I received scholarship by organization awarded, the life of my family have decreased many difficulties.My parents reduce a burden while they are raising four childrens to school. Thus, I have the condition for better learning.

When I was asked about dream myself, Isaid that “I want to be a businesswoman”.And if tomorrow, this dream come true, Iwill be like you, finding the difficult andunfortunate who are needing help and pro-tect.

I wish aunts and uncles would be rigoroushealth to help more and more many stu-dents.

Yours faithfully,Nguyen Thi Thanh Hang

MICRO-FINANCE HELPS TRANSFORM LIVES IN VIETNAMBy Jill Grimm

Micro-finance is a grass-root investment in the power of hardworking entre-preneurs. In order for the poorest in Vietnam to overcome poverty theyneed capital and practical training. The D.O.V.E. Fund provides loans tothe poorer women of Vietnam so they can invest in livestock, agriculturalventures or commerce.

How does it work? Seed money is offered to selected women who do nothave the collateral or credit history to secure traditional loans. D.O.V.E.works closely with Hearts for Hue, a Vietnamese non-profit organizationthat approves the candidates who will receive loans. The women are thenassigned to a group of approximately ten fellow recipients who offer supportto one another and assistance in the event that one of their members suf-fers a loss and is unable to pay on the loan. Detailed bookkeeping recordsare managed and account for all transactions. The loan amount is repaidwith interest and the repaid loan is again available to help new individualsinvest in businesses.

The women who are awarded the loans use it to purchase farm animals or fish tobreed, fabrics and a sewing machine to start a tailoring business, crops to culti-vate such as mushrooms, black pepper trees or any number of potential busi-ness commodities.

This program is experiencing great success and we are looking into expanding itwith additional funding for 2013. You can help by investing in the potential ofthese hard-working, impoverished individuals. As the old saying goes, “Give aman a fish and you feed him for a day: teach him to catch a fish and you feed himfor a lifetime.” Please help us to help them help themselves by a donation to ourMicro-finance project today. No amount is too small because our dollar goes along way in Vietnam.

Thank you for your continued support of the D.O.V.E. Fund.

Hai Lang High School scholarship recipients with members of the D.O.V..E Delegation

Pat Youngs & John Craven with junior high school scholarshiprecipients

Dodie Gaines with scholarship recipients and teachersNOTEWORTHY ITEMS FROM THE D.O.V.E. FUNDDon’t forget to support our fundraising efforts throughout the year and join us at these fun events.

December 22, 2012 5:00 pm “Tom and Gary’s Holiday Charity Bash II”, a fundraiser to help feed Vietnam’s starving lepercolonies to be held at the Monroe VFW on Jones St. Hosted by Tom and Renee Treece and DJ Gary “Daddy G” Knight. Treece’sband “Cross Point” will provide the live music along with other special guests. $10 donation at the door

May 2013 Twylite Thursday at the Pinnacle 5:30 pm. Join us for after-work cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres on the patio of thePinnacle Banquet Center in Maumee. Donation is only $10

June 7, 2013 11:30 am D.O.V.E. Fund Golf outing at South Toledo Golf Club. Bring your favorite foursome and join us for a funday on the links. Cash bar and steak dinner afterwards along with prizes and a raffle for terrific gifts. $125 donation per person

August 16, 2013 6:00 pm Charity Dinner Auction. This is our biggest and most elegant fundraiser of the year and is held at thePinnacle Banquet Center in Maumee. Enjoy browsing through the dozens of items while you enjoy your favorite drink duringcocktail hour, then sit down for a lovely dinner in anticipation of the live auction hosted by WTOL personalities Chrys Petersonand Jerry Anderson. $75 per person

D.O.V.E. DILIGENCE Keep informed on the latest D.O.V.E. Fund projects with our monthly e-newsletter sent directly to yourInbox. Sign up online at www.dovefund.org

Nguyen Thi Dan buys & sells duck eggs as her businessventure

Micro-Finance is a growing venture

8 3

D.O.V.E. FUND FOUNDER RECEIVES JEFFERSON AWARDBy Dan Gregg

When D.O.V.E. Fund trustee Jim Taylor left Vietnam in 1968, he never imagined he wouldreturn. Vietnam was especially brutal for Jim. Wounded twice and losing a good friend in thewar, he was grateful to return to civilian life in Toledo, Ohio. Taylor worked at Ford MotorCompany until his retirement in 2006. While at Ford, he became involved with the UAW Veter-ans Committee - eventually becoming National Chair with a term as Chairman of the UAWRegion 2-BE Advisory Council.

For Taylor, like other veterans, Vietnam remained an ominous part of his life. His thoughtsturned from trying to forget Vietnam to thinking maybe he could return and help the people of thecountry ravaged by decades of war. In 2000, he was among other Vietnam veterans and Rotarianswho founded the D.O.V.E. Fund.

Soon after, he and members of the newly formed charity made their first trip to Vietnam. Al-though he wanted to return, Taylor knew that Vietnam held many bad memories. He wasapprehensive about his reception in Vietnam but after a few days, he was relieved and said“These are the most loving and friendly people you could ever meet. It’s just unbelievable.” Jimwas so moved by his return trip that he played a major role in the effort to fund a school in DauKenh.

In March, from 70 nominees, Jim was one of four local humanitarians to receive the prestigious Jefferson Award. He was thenchosen to represent the Toledo area at the National ceremony in June in Washington DC. The Jefferson Award is a nationalrecognition system designed to honor those who demonstrate extraordinary service to their community and the world. This isnot the first time a D.O.V.E. Fund trustee has been honored with the Jefferson Award. Two years ago, Fred Grimm, current ViceChair of Vietnam Projects, received the award from the Toledo organization. Grimm, also a Vietnam veteran and Purple Heartrecipient, is planning his thirteenth mission trip to Vietnam in January of 2013.

Although Taylor, 66, is now retired, he rarely has time to relax. He is a lifetime member of the Toledo Old Newsboys andvolunteers at his church by gathering food to feed the needy at its Hospitality Kitchen. We congratulate Jim for his passion tomake a positive difference in the lives of others.

Jim Taylor and principal at dedicationof school funded by Dan Pham

CARRYING ON HIS FATHER’S LEGACYBy Staff Writer

James P. Guiducci served two voluntary tours in Vietnam with the US Army Engineers– onenear the village of M’Drak in the Central Highlands. In 2008 he returned bringing his son,Jason, a middle school teacher and wrestling coach near Vallejo, CA. Moved by the childrenof M’Drak who swarmed around them with smiling faces, Jason was touched and vowed tohelp them and further his dad’s original mission - to help the Vietnamese. He researchedhow he might help the impoverished children near M’Drak. He found the Hoang Van ThuJunior High School (“HVT”) near M’Drak funded by the D.O.V.E. Fund.

Jason contacted Chairman John Craven, shared his personal connection and asked how heand his middle school Springstowne Wrestling Team members could provide benefit to theHVT students. Many of the boys and girls on the team are of Vietnamese descent so lettersand emails began to link the two groups of students half-a-world apart fostering a new cul-tural exchange. Springstowne held an inaugural wrestling tournament and proceeds fundedHVT scholarships. Jason and his team members have provided enough funds to help fundtuition assistance for one year for 32 students at HVT. These children are the future ofVietnam!

The James P. Guiducci wrestling tournament now has a very specialmeaning for all involved as Jason’s father passed away in 2010, eigh-teen months after their trip to Vietnam. Jason stated, “Going to Viet-nam with my father was the best decision I ever made.” He mentionedhe and his father were positively changed by it.

Jason’s passion motivates his students and teaches them firsthandthe joy received when helping others in need. The D.O.V.E. Fund helpsover 350 students annually via tuition assistance. Without scholarshipassistance the children raised in farming communities such as M’Drakcould not attend school as the $50- $75/year tuition for one student isabout 1/6 the average yearly income. Jason’s efforts are vital to further-ing the D.O.V.E. Fund mission.

Jason A. Guiducci is our newest Honorary Member. Upon learningthis, Jason replied: “I was completely touched at the news and utterlyspeechless of this honor I’ve been bestowed. The veterans of Viet Namare my heroes and to be given this honor to work with them is beyondwords”.

We applaud Jason for his passion to teach, inspire and make a positive difference!

VIETNAM...HONORING A MAN, A HUSBAND AND A SOLDIER continued

from page 1

James P. Guiducci

A few Springstowne Wrestling Team members pose with their Li-Xi gift envelopes for HVT students

Hoang Van Thu students on receiving end of the Li-Xi giftenvelopes Joanne’s daughter, Tara, sitting on a French bunker located at Con

Thien Hill where her father served

Being on an emotional rollercoaster, we were moved beyond words by what we saw and how the people live day-to-day. ThenThong told us about the D.O.V.E. Fund and showed us a school that was built by their donations. It is close to the area wheremy husband spent a great deal of time. He shared about the wonder-ful efforts of this group and how much they help where there is muchneed. I was blown away by a group of people I didn’t even know…yet.

When I returned home, I was still overcome with emotion by what weexperienced. I felt such a connection with the Vietnamese, the memoryof my husband and his time spent in Vietnam. I decided to carry onmy husband’s legacy by helping the people that went through somuch during the war. Thong mentioned many of the D.O.V.E. Fundmembers are Vietnam veterans and suggested I contact trustee FredGrimm. I eagerly did so and afterward I was convinced the D.O.V.E.Fund was my way to help. Fred elaborated on various projects and Idecided to help the Leper victims because of their extreme needs. Ithought this was a significant place to start, and based on my trip,whatever I chose, I knew would be perfect! I know my husband andother veterans left Vietnam with deep feelings for the people and theirunfortunate struggles. My trip experiences will be among my mosttreasured memories in my lifetime.

Jason Guiducci and John Craven at San Francisco Airport in 2012

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2012 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

HONORARY MEMBERS

MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAIRMAN

PERPETUAL HONORARY MEMBERS

Adrienne BellRichard CarrPeter Casey IIIChris CheneyMolly Spitzer FrostMarianne GehringMarian GremsBrady Grimm

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VIETNAM REPRESENTATIVE

Dear D.O.V.E. Fund family members,

On behalf of the members of the Board of Trustees,greetings to you and those you hold dearly. We hopethis message finds you prosperous and healthy as weapproach the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. Weare having another incredible year and in a couple ofmonths our 13th completed year will be in the books. Ithardly seems possible another 365 days have been rap-idly folded into our rich history which now totals about4,650 days since inception in January 2000. Havinghelped approximately 37,000 people so far with our vari-

ous projects and programs, together we are helping on average 8 impover-ished people per day to improve their lot in life. That is exciting!

Speaking of time racing along, I am reminded of when I was a child frequentlywishing for something to occur sooner – the end of the school day, the end ofthe school year, getting “quick sleep” so I could fill my next day, getting mydriver’s license – you get the picture. As each year passes, I vividly recall mymother advising me as a child not to wish my life away because, “The daysseem to go by a lot faster as you get older.” were her words of wisdom. AndMom, as with many other important lessons about life, you were right on withthis one!

For several years we concentrated on building schools, clean water systemsand medical clinics. Our project base has widened considerably and nowincludes micro-finance programs, mobile libraries, mobile dental clinics, solarlights for reading, more computer labs, homes for Agent Orange and landminevictims and many others that fulfill a basic need. Today we are finding ourwork is beginning to be recognized and sought by others. Over the pastseveral months we’ve been approached by charitable organizations wishing topartner with us for a specific project. This is exciting since it allows us toleverage strengths from two charities to effectively help those in need. Inparticular, you can read in this issue about the new PET International project.PET stands for Personal Energy Transportation. In January 2013, P.E.T. andD.O.V.E. will launch an inaugural event in Hue, Vietnam – The “Gift of Mobil-ity” to the disabled.

Each time we pour over project proposals we strive to allocate funds wherethey will be most effective. We are grateful for your continued support of ourMission to help the poorest children and families of Vietnam. Without youthese needs would remain unfilled. It takes a tremendous amount of people,energy and funding to function as effectively and successfully as we havebeen able to perform. It is with sincere appreciation that we thank you forhelping develop a rich and rewarding history for the D.O.V.E. Fund. And if youare reading this newsletter for the first time, we hope you will decide to join ourfamily and join us for an incredible and rewarding journey.

God’s richest blessings to you,John Craven,Chairman

Jerry AndersonSteve BoiceJohn BormanPaul de St. VictorRobert DurbinLinda DurbinDan FooteDodie GainesJason GuiducciRev. Robert HaasCMDR Porter HalyburtonMary HannaDavid LangendorferGretta Laskey

Robert MehringChuck OswaldTom Saam

John AbbeyJulie AbbeyRobert CulpClair DobsonGreg FishDan GreggJill GrimmRobert Krisher

TRUSTEES

John Craven, Board ChairJim Taylor, Vice ChairFred Grimm, Vice Chair, Vietnam ProjectsGail Craven, SecretaryTim Kearney, Treasurer

ADVISORY MEMBERS

Susan HammonRoger HeiderPat LongbrakeDale MehringSharon Sitek-DendingerGreg Trabbic Norm Van NessJoyce Woodworth

Mark SatheLanny Saumer

Mark MakulinskiGeof McKissonSharon McKissonJim MedillPaula MehringChrys PetersonJohn RiceDavid RyersonChuck StockingTom TreeceRenee TreeceDianne Van VoorhisJohn WileyAngie Wingerd

Denny McBroomDo NguyenCeleste SouthardRoland SouthardLinda StockerSharon TrabbicDavid WelchDoug Welch

WAR ORPHAN THANKS VETERANSBy Katie Nixon, Vietnamese war orphan

Hello! My name is Katie Nixon and I am a South Vietnamese war orphan. Likethousands of other infants and children, I was abandoned on the side of the roadin Can Tho, South Vietnam in 1975. I was found and brought to an orphanagethere, then transferred to another in Saigon before fleeing Vietnam. I was savedvia the efforts of “Operation Babylift” and evacuated on April 6, 1975. I wasCanada-bound and adopted by a loving family from London, Ontario.

I cannot summarize in a few paragraphs a lifetime of thoughts about my aban-donment, adoption and the healing process required to overcome my strugglesand pain. However, I will share that during my return trip to Vietnam in 2000, Isurprisingly discovered that the key to my healing was going back and facingmy fears and worst nightmare, if I wanted to move forward.

It was by the grace of God that my husband’s aunt happened upon the D.O.V.E.Fund website and found John Craven while doing research for her own book.John is the first Vietnam veteran I’ve encountered and when we met this August, it was a wonderful reunion of what seemed tobe two old friends – a meeting of the past and present, of war veteran and war orphan, of two hearts who share both a commonache and a common passion for the same country. It was epic for me.

The feelings are difficult to put into words, but a heartfelt thank yougoes out to all Vietnam War Veterans – we orphans are so grateful toeach and every one of you! You ARE our champions!

I would also like to extend my appreciation to the D.O.V.E. Fund foryour continued support of the poorest Vietnamese children and theirfamilies in Vietnam. It warms my heart knowing these families arebenefiting from your organization, and that you are truly making a differ-ence in the lives of these children. Bravo! And keep up the incrediblework!

God bless!

Bui Cam Nhung

Scott, Katie, John, & Gail taken August 25, 2012 when they met

Katie at the orphanage where they gave her the nameMatilda

If you would like to help the D.O.V.E. Fund make a difference in the lives of Vietnamese families, please fill out this form, encloseyour donation and mail it to the D.O.V.E. Fund at P.O. Box 350741, Toledo, Ohio 43635

Name__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________City_________________State________Zip___________

Telephone______________________________Email____________________________________

Amount of Donation___________________________________________________________

Donation made in Memory/Honor of:______________________________________

________ Yes, I would like to receive the D.O.V.E. Diligence Online newsletter

Thank you for your support!If you’d like to know more about D.O.V.E.’s ongoing projects, please take the time to visitour website at www.dovefund.org

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

DOVEDETAILS

ISSUE TWELVE www.dovefund.org FALL 2012

1

P.O. Box 350741Toledo, Ohio 43635

The D.O.V.E. Fund is a non-profitcorporation founded by severalVietnam veterans, Rotarians, andother concerned citizens in Janu-ary 2000, in Toledo, Ohio.

Our goal is to provide humanitarianand development assistance to ar-eas in Vietnam; to promote com-munication, education, and culturalexchanges that reflect the bestqualities of both cultures; and tocreate an environment brightenedby hope and sustained by peace.

The D.O.V.E. Fund is a 501(c)3nonprofit organization and is incor-porated under the laws of the stateof Ohio. Contributions are tax de-ductible.

Since its founding, the D.O.V.E.Fund has built 21 nurseryschools,16 daycare centers, 9 el-ementary schools, and 1 juniorhigh school. In addition, D.O.V.E.has built 4 medical clinics, 6 majorwater projects, and more than 150latrines, conducted medical mis-sions, implemented an EmergencyMedicine Residency Program,and established 2 Micro-financeprograms for women in QuangTri and Thua Thien Hue provinces.

We’ve funded tuition assistancefor over 1,000 poor students, work-shops for English teachers, com-puters and sewing machinesfor Phu Hau Vocational School,braille computers and printer forHue School for Blind, 5 schoolcomputer centers, 8 mobile lib-raries, 2 mobile dental clinics and120 Solar Lights for Readingso students can study after dark.

PRST STANDARD

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDTOLEDO, OH

PERMIT NO. 164

VIETNAM...HONORING A MAN, A HUSBANDAND A SOLDIERBy Joanne Gump

This journey happened onlybecause I was married to amost-wonderful, giving, andloving man. My husbandwas a proud Marine and en-listed in 1964. He was pas-sionate about the UnitedStates of America andwanted to do what he feltwas most honorable - servehis country. He enlisted inApril, 1964 and trained inParris Island, SC andCamp Lejeune, NC. Hewas assigned to the 3rdBattalion, 4th Marine Regi-ment, 3rd Marine Divisionand the battalion was deployed to the Republic of Vietnam in April, 1965. He waspart of a group called “CAPS” (Combined Action Platoons) and served mainly at ConThien Hill, Dong Ha, Quang Tri province near the DMZ.

He seldom spoke of war experiences, but during our 36 year marriage he often saidhe would like to return to see how things changed. He had a deep affection for thepeople and had memories and feelings of the war that only he and others who servedthere could understand. Sadly, before he could make his return trip he succumbedto lung cancer in 2008.

I was able to personally fulfill his dream after visiting my daughter Tara who lives inThailand. We both decided to take an extended trip to Vietnam. I knew it would befilled with much emotion and sadness, yet felt it was necessary. Upon entering thecountry I was immediately moved on many levels and it was difficult to sort throughit all. However, we were blessed with a most- wonderful guide named Nguyen CongThong. We called him “Thong”. His wealth of information and history of the war isremarkable and was very settling for us. My daughter supplied an agency withbackground information about my husband’s duty stations and we strongly desiredto retrace his steps. Thong helped us do that and took us to the exact places wherewe were able to talk to many people who remembered that time so well.In fact, we met an older villager who recognized my husband’s picture. The man was16 years old at the time.

continued on page 3

D.O.V.E. FUND MISSION TRIP 2013By Staff Writer

On January 17, 2013, a contingent of D.O.V.E. representatives will depart Detroit Metropolitan Airport for another exciting andproductive trip to Vietnam. Traveling with the group for the first time will be Jerry Dunaway, a retired teacher and coach fromTrenton, MI. Jerry served in the Air Force and was stationed in Japan. He was given the opportunity to volunteer for Vietnamduty before anyone knew much about where it was and what was going on there in the late 1950’s. He chose to remain at hisduty station in Japan with his Intelligence group which suited him well. Jerry has a strong desire to see Vietnam and interactwith the people since it could have been an integral part of his life. It will be after this trip!

Also traveling with the group is Dale Dykema and his wife Cathy, from Holland, MI. Dale was a surgeon assigned to the MarineForces located in Dong Ha. Interestingly enough we will be spending three days in Dong Ha reviewing various D.O.V.E. Fundprojects in the surrounding area. Dale volunteers with PET International, another article in this issue, and he has a very sincerepassion to help others. We are excited for Dale as he makes his “return trip” with us. Another returning Vietnam veteran is TimRyan, a long-time local Rotarian, who brings extensive experience regarding a variety of international efforts.

It is standard operating procedure for the contingent to meet with local officials about new project ideas for our 2013 year. Inaddition, there will be dedication ceremonies at the Hai Thanh elementary and Phu Luu Daycare in Quang Tri province and thePho Phong daycare center in Quang Ngai province. Visits to the Hai An medical center and sanitation project are also in order.Then the group will distribute 140 PET carts to the disabled in Hue as well as install 90 Solar Lights for Reading in Hong Vanwhich is in the remote A Loui district northwest of Hue. The group will be meeting with three scholarship groups – Quang Tri andHai Lang High Schools who have 90 students each and about 20 students at the University of Technology in Saigon. We focuson interacting with people at all levels – children, teachers and parents as well as local officials at the commune, village, districtand provincial levels. For 13 years we’ve developed great relationships. We’ve been told many times that we are uniquebecause our frequent visits, hands-on approach and relationship building greatly set us apart from most charitable organiza-tions.

Joanne watching local man look at her old pictures. He recognizedher husband

PRST STANDARDAUTO

U.S. POSTAGE PAIDTOLEDO, OH

PERMIT NO. 179

P.O. Box 350741Toledo, Ohio 43635